Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
BOOK WRITING TIPS: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors is a weekly podcast with tips for authors of all levels. Whether you're just thinking about starting to write a book but have no idea what to do, or if you've been writing for a long time and just want some new or different ideas of how to go about it, this podcast will hopefully give some inspiration to authors of all stages.
Episodes
Has your creative spark vanished? Whether you’re a novelist, poet, blogger, or aspiring author, every writer experiences moments when inspiration feels out of reach. In this episode, I’m exploring practical ways to find writing inspiration and reignite your creativity when the muse seems to have disappeared.
Whether you’re struggling with a novel, searching for fresh story ideas, or simply trying to get back into y...
Are you an author preparing to attend a book festival? In this episode, I’m sharing some practical book festival tips to help you feel confident, connect with readers, and make the most of your author experience. I’ll be going over things to do well in advance of the festival as well as things to do the week of.
Whether you’re a first-time author or an experienced writer, learn how to prepare for a book festival, c...
Dialogue vs. narration—which one should dominate your story? In this episode, I go over some tips to find the right dialogue-to-narration ratio to create engaging, well-paced, and immersive storytelling. I also cover the difference of ratios among different genres.
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Scrivener (the writing software I use)
AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)
In this episode, I’m sharing the steps I’m taking to develop my very first murder mystery novel. Because I have never written in this genre, I’m going to share the steps I have taken thus far to prepare me to write in this genre.
Whether you’re an aspiring mystery writer, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes when a writer chooses to write in a new genre, this episode offers a look at the cre...
Want to learn how to write an action scene that feels fast, exciting, and impossible to put down? In this episode, I break down the essential techniques for writing action scenes that create tension, momentum, and emotional impact.
Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, screenplay, or fantasy adventure, these creative writing techniques will help you craft action sequences that readers can visualize and feel.
Helpful link...
Not sure which POV is best for your book? In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of writing in the different points of view, from first person to third person limited and omniscient (and even second person!). Not really sure what each of these are? No worries! I'll break down what each POV means and (hopefully) give you some food for thought on which one would be best for your book.
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Is your manuscript missing the spark that hooks agents and keeps readers turning pages? In this episode of the podcast, I break down the 9 essential elements of a novel that every successful story must include.
Discover practical creative writing tips to weave these elements organically into your manuscript without making your story feel formulative. Tune in to build your ultimate storytelling toolkit!
Helpful links (some are a...
In this episode of the podcast, I unpack the golden rule of creative writing: how to master the art of "show, don't tell." I break down actionable techniques to transform flat, exposition-heavy sentences into immersive emotional experiences that keep your readers hooked.
Perfect for indie authors, novelists, and screenwriters of all experience levels looking to strengthen their unique narrative voice and master a deeper point ...
Looking for a subtle, realistic way to test your protagonist without launching a full-scale crisis? In this episode of the podcast, I break down how to leverage minor illnesses—like a stubborn common cold, an annoying seasonal allergy flare-up, or a pounding tension headache—as a brilliant tool for organic character development.
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Scrivener (the writing sof...
Are you looking for a fresh, organic way to show who your characters are without relying on boring info-dumps? In this episode, I explore the power of character development through the lens of daily habits and personal routines.
Tune in to turn ordinary chores into powerful tools for character growth!
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Scrivener (the writing software I use)
AlbaArango.com (my webs...
Are you looking for a foolproof way to catch hidden typos and fix clunky sentences? In this episode, I dive into the ultimate self-editing secret: reading your manuscript out loud. Discover how shifting from visual reading to auditory editing can completely transform your revision process and elevate your storytelling.
Perfect for indie authors, novelists, and creative writers looking for practical writing tips to sharpen thei...
Are you feeling isolated in your creative journey? In this episode, I explore the best places to find your writing community and discuss why building a strong network is essential for your long-term publishing success.
I break down where to connect with fellow storytellers, covering both online and in-person events, and how those connections can help you in your writing journey.
Tune in to discover how to move from a lonely hobbyist ...
Are you an architectural plotter who maps out every chapter, or an intuitive pantser who writes by the seat of your pants? In this episode, I break down the great debate of plotting vs. pantsing to help you discover the perfect workflow for your creative process.
I explore the pros and cons of both creative writing styles, analyzing how a detailed novel outline can prevent writer's block versus how organic pantsing can spark unexpec...
Want to sell more books and connect directly with your readers? In this episode, I share some strategies for author email marketing and ways to grow your subscriber base, even if you are starting from zero.
Tune in to stop relying on social media algorithms and start building a publishing asset you truly own!
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Scrivener (the writing software I use)
AlbaArango.com ...
Are you struggling with a sagging middle or a plot that feels flat? In this episode, I dive into the heart of creative writing to explore actionable techniques for increasing narrative stakes and keeping your readers turning pages.
I break down some essential elements of story conflict, moving beyond basic arguments to explore internal dilemmas, environmental pressures, and opposing character motivations. Whether you are a pan...
Are character sheets worth your time, or can they slow down your writing process? In this episode, I explore some advantages and disadvantages of using character sheets while writing a novel. Whether you're a first-time author or an experienced writer, character profiles can help you develop believable characters, maintain consistency, and uncover personality traits, motivations, and backstory. But, are they necessary?
Helpful...
Ready to write your first book? Second book? Twentieth book? In this episode, I’m sharing 9 basic book writing tips that every author should consider before starting their manuscript. Whether you're writing a novel, memoir, or nonfiction book, these practical writing strategies will help you build a strong foundation and avoid common beginner mistakes.
Helpful links (some are affiliate links):
Scrivener (the writing softw...
Want to write dialogue that feels natural, engaging, and memorable? In this episode, I explore practical dialogue writing tips that can help bring your characters to life and strengthen your storytelling. Whether you're writing a novel, short story, or screenplay, strong character dialogue is essential for creating believable relationships, revealing personality, and moving the plot forward.
If you've ever struggled with writing rea...
Writing a book doesn't end with the first draft—it’s only the beginning. In this episode, I share my personal strategy for tackling second drafts, third drafts, and beyond. Whether you're revising your first novel or looking for a more effective editing process, you'll learn practical book revision techniques that can help strengthen your manuscript.
If you've ever wondered how to turn a rough first draft into a polished...
Thinking about self-publishing your book? The best time to start preparing isn't after you've finished your manuscript—it's months before publication day. In this episode, I discuss some essential self-publishing decisions authors should consider early in the writing process.
If you're an aspiring author, indie publisher, or writer researching the self-publishing process, this episode offers practical advice to help you naviga...
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